Consumers' appetite for smaller, higher functioning communication devices continues to grow. And, while manufacturers have the capability to deliver increasingly miniaturized components, the challenge is to produce these devices economically, efficiently and at high yield. Miniaturization alone -- while complex -- isn't what presents the greatest obstacle. It's balancing the requirements of miniaturization with "standard" technology to achieve robust broadband (heterogeneous) assemblies that challenges electronics specialists. This has been and continues to be what inspires DEK's product and process innovation efforts.
Driven by these market realities, DEK will launch several new technologies this year which will make highly accurate, high-speed print processes more efficient and easier to use. Our approach to customer partnerships in 2014 will remain as it has since DEK's founding over 40 years ago: we will exceed customer expectations in all aspects of our global business and will continue to invest in innovative, exceptionally accurate printing solutions -- from the market's best platforms to unique productivity enhancing systems to precision screens and stencils.
In 2014, DEK expects global expansion in the markets we serve. Semiconductor packaging and electronics assembly will see modest growth and solar cell demand is reaching manufacturing capacity levels, which bodes well for future equipment investment. Our pending acquisition by ASM Pacific Technology is very exciting and presents many new long-term growth opportunities for DEK. With our new ownership and our exceptional customer partnerships, we look forward with great anticipation to an excellent 2014.
